Centrifugal Compressor Diffuser Assembly with Curved Deswirler Vanes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diffuser systems for centrifugal compressors in rotating machines, such as gas turbine engines, require significant space to effectively diffuse and deswirl the fluid exiting the compressor, which is a challenge in modern engines where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
A diffuser assembly comprising an annular conduit with a first set of vanes in a radial linear portion and a second set of vanes in a curved portion, followed by a flared or linear portion, which reduces the overall footprint while maintaining effective fluid diffusion and deswirling capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a traditional diffuser system is used to effectively diffuse and deswirl fluid, then fluid diffusion and deswirling are maintained, but the space occupied by the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser system is divided into multiple functional sections: a first diffuser section with first vanes for initial diffusion, a curved section with second vanes for deswirling, and a second diffuser section with third vanes for final diffusion. This segmentation allows each section to perform its specific function efficiently within a compact overall footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the curved section where the passage axis curves in a plane containing the rotation axis, effectively using three-dimensional spatial arrangement to achieve deswirling and diffusion functions that would traditionally require more linear space. The curved geometry allows fluid to transition from radial to axial flow direction while compacting the system footprint.
2Volume of moving object
If the diffuser assembly is compacted to reduce footprint, then space is reduced, but fluid flow conditioning may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Different sections of the diffuser have different vane configurations and geometries optimized for their specific local function: the first diffuser section has vanes optimized for initial diffusion, the curved section has vanes configured for deswirling, and the second diffuser section has vanes for final flow conditioning. This local optimization maintains overall flow quality while compacting the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved section employs a curved passage geometry where the passage axis curves in a plane containing the rotation axis, and the vanes in this section are configured to follow the curvature. This curved geometry efficiently achieves deswirling and flow direction change within a compact space, maintaining flow conditioning quality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The proposed diffuser assembly occupies less space while maintaining effective fluid diffusion and deswirling, potentially allowing for a smaller engine design and reducing dump losses, thus offsetting any increased losses through the deswirler vanes.
Implementation Method 1
the fluid exiting a rotating impeller must be diffused prior to being used in an application
Implementation Method 2
diffuse and deswirl the fluid exiting the compressor
Data Source
AI summary
A diffuser assembly is disclosed for conditioning the effluent of a centrifugal compressor. The diffuser assembly comprises an annular conduit, a first set of vanes, and a second set of vanes. The annular conduit comprises a first wall and a second wall displaced from each other and cooperating to define an inlet, an outlet, and a passage extending from the inlet to the outlet. The passage has a first linear portion, a curved portion, and a second linear portion. The first set of vanes are positioned in the first linear portion of said passage. The second set of vanes are positioned in the curved portion of the passage. Each vane of the second set of vanes curves axially and laterally from a vane leading edge to a vane trailing edge.